Session Start: Sat Jul 14 21:04:21 2007 Session Ident: #lunar-iog2 * Logging for #lunar-iog2 started * TheStoryteller changes topic to '-= Chapter 44 - Alma-Matters, The Final Exam | Location: Hylan Academy | Pools: 720 §, 9 MXP =- http://storen.rpgcafe.net/IoG/ =-' == SESSION START == * Amy is now known as Niri * Zack is now known as Mikel The clouds obscure the moon from sight as night falls and the group reminisces over recent events with a well deserved rest. The next morning started as it always did, albiet a bit more somber without the presence of friends lost. There would be an important test for one among them before long... >> All HP/MP restored! * Niri yawns and stretches as she awakes, then gets up and rummages in her pack for some decently fresh clothes before joining the others for breakfast. * Vytor is already at breakfast with a full plate, but seems only to be picking at it. * Niri sits down next to Vytor. "Hi. How're you this morning?" * Saki pokes and prods at her food listlessly. She doesn't look like she's been sleeping well - a bed's always better than a bunk, however, and she is at least surviving. A glower's sent at the world around her as she resolutely shovels food away. Morning Niri. I guess I'm all right, given the circumstances. * Niri nods. "Yeah, I know what you mean." She takes a bite of sausage and chews thoughtfully. Shiro has been following Niri like a literally lost puppy, not exactly sure of what to do and restless. * Niri feeds a bit of sausage to Shiro and pats him reassuringly. I think Saki's worse off thought. Looks like she slept under one of the Destony's tires. No offense Saki. * Saki waves a fork absently in Vytor's direction and makes a noise, possibly of agreement, in her throat. "Mn. It's harder to sleep recently." Laike's been sitting on the steps of the Clinic, and Yuriko is out doing her training in the field. It is always a good way to stay focused. * Trune wanders into the cafeteria with a bundle of books tucked under one arm. He looks as if he hasn't slept much, and quietly makes his way to where everyone else is starting to gather. He plops his books down on the table with a thud. Morning Trune. Welcome to the 'no-sleep' club. I slept sort of okay, at least. But I wouldn't say I'm in a good mood, exactly. << *honks horn, points at ooc chan* >> >> SUDDENLY, SEVERAL HOURS PASS. << for clarification, this is the afternoon! Not breakfast. I will do some edits to fix this fact. Fast Forward go! :P >> Boy its been a while since breakfast. I'm hungry. ...It's lunch already? * Trune looks down at his books, "Crap, I feel like I'm in some sort of loop here." * Mia_Ausa (~n@pool-71-162-65-246.bstnma.east.verizon.net) has joined #lunar-iog2 The student body is out and about on the grassy quad, as the day's classes are in full swing. The sun tries to poke through the midday haze, the air heavy with moisture and humidity. Those that went to visit Lure at the Clinic discovered he was in good spirits, although doctors were giving him until the next sunrise before his soul energy complete depletes... * Niri looks very downcast after visiting Lure. She sits and pets Shiro absently. * Angie 's eyes are on the horizon. People walk back and forth along the path in front of her, but she stares past them, fixating on some distant vanishing point. * Vytor settles down in the quad, waiting for the group to re-assemble, as per a previous arrangement. * Mikel emerges from a building and makes for the quad, sparing a glance towards the skies and muttering something about crappy weather. * Trune sits on a grassy part of the knoll, starting at something only he can see, his gaze vacant. * Ryllan sits on a convenient planter, waiting for the others patiently. * Saki frowns at the expanse, eyes watching something that isn't there. After a long pause, she uses the time constructively, carefully moving through a variety of practice moves off to one side. There is a meeting scheduled with the Headmistress coming up that several remember. Tanan left a message that he would be waiting there with her to discuss what happens next. Shiro licks Niri's hand, shuffling his two bushy white tails back and forth. he appreciates the attention and cheers up some. Everyone's here? Let's go. * Vytor digs into his pocket for his watch, and checks the time. "Yeah, it's time we got going." * Mikel offers a vague wave to folks, frowning. "Time to find out how this goes, then." * Niri nods Uh? Oh, yeah. * Ryllan stands and heads toward the Headmistress' office, leading the way with a steady pace. * Vytor stands and stretches, then follows Ryllan. * Trune pushes himself up and follows the others, his expression somber. * Angie looks at the gathering of friends as if surprised to see them. She scratches at her cheek, pushes her glasses up on her nose, and sighs. * Saki takes a moment to finish her current set of movements; after a moment it registers that people are moving away, and she turns to follow after them. * Vytor waves Angie over to the group as they walk * Mikel follows along as well, mulling. * Angie acknowledge's Vytor's summons with a nod and makes her way over. Hey. Hey. * Saki raises her eyebrows at Angie as she steps alongside the group. "... any progress?" That's what we're hoping to find out. And so you progress into the tower without incident, and up the classy glass elevator to the Academy staff offices. * Angie laughs a little through her nostrils. "He's running on fumes, I guess. Doctors can't do anything." * Trune looks away from Angie as she talks, looking out the glass elevator as it goes upward. * Niri looks downcast, and confused as to why Angie is laughing about this. Wit any luck, Tanan will have a plan to get us a leg up on this new problem. The view here is definitely impressive. The campus spans many acres, training the new settlers how to bend and shape the world for a new future. You can even hear the faint elevator music of Haylee's signing pumped in. The little lighted numbers keep going up, all the way to the top. * Saki nods slowly in response, then turns her head to gaze outside listlessly. The music gives her a headache. << singing rather. >> * Mikel lets out a sigh, glancing over at Niri. "Hang in there, hm?" ...hmm. Or do they? Instead of reaching the last level as normal, the lighted number vanishes strangely. The glass view outside ripples. ..? ...now what? Huh? Yeah, I will. I'm okay. *Picks up Shiro and pats him* Shiro's ears perk up and he barks at the door. It doesn't seem angry, more like he recognizes a familiar scent. There's a pause as the elevator slides to a stop. Then the two glossy doors open up to... * Angie is startled out of her funk, looking as shocked as someone who found a snake in her purse. * Saki blinks, shivering full-body almost in time with Shiro. When the doors slide open she's imperceptibly moved a little forwards to shield the group. * Tanan is revealed as the doors slide open, standing in front of the group, dressed now in a set of formal blue robes. A plain longsword hangs from his belt, and Misogi rests in his left hand, gripped by the scabbard. The scenery is almost familiar - it's Johnathan's office, but he's nowhere to be seen. Indeed, there's almost nothing. The chairs and tables and bookcases are gone, leaving a large empty room with one solitary des * Tanan smiles for a brief moment as he sees everyone, stepping forward. behind him is a large circle drawn into the wood floor, ringed with various symbols. Umm...hi...Tanan. * Trune raises an eyebrow, "Hey...what's with the getup?" Didn't we come up the elevator t- ...Never mind. Scared me for a moment... yeah, what's with the circle? * Saki is very definitely in front of the group now; her stance is vaguely predatory, and there's a glare levelled at Tanan. After a few moments, she breathes out and steps into the room. * A bit of Angie's tension leaks out with a sigh. She follows Tanan into the room, eyes on the ring of symbols. * Vytor walks into the room, looking at the set-up curiously. He didn't come back, I'm afraid. Doing this has fallen to me. You all know why you're here already, though. Mostly, anyway. * Niri blinks at Tanan, looking confused. I think I may have missed something. * Mikel frowns, hands twitching for a moment. "Does that mean.." Indeed, the ring of symbols is similar to what some former students of the Academy remember for magical duels and final course exams. The runes protect the surrounding area from willforce damage. * Saki takes up position just to one side of the lift doors. It's exactly the same spot she usually uses when dealing with Johnathan. * Trune looks confused, "Yeah, but...who's being tested? All of us?" * Tanan looks at Niri, then shrugs. "A little more explaination is due everyone anyway. The test will be for whichever one of you chooses the weapon. Or is chosen by. You can look at it either way. And I can tell you now, since it's certain.. it's not so much a weapon as it is a suit of armor." Chosen...by? ...Ah, okay. That makes a little more sense. * Niri looks thoughtful. * Ryllan cocks his head, "Anyone, I expect, who steps up. Think about whether you want to offer yourself. This won't be a game. Saki's chosen not to. I can understand why." * Saki crosses her arms, leaning back against the wall. What can be seen of her features looks unimpressed: she glowers at the scene. * Tanan glances at the vaulted ceiling for a moment. "Zophar said it himself. The dragonmasters of old are gone. This is the academy's attempt to do something in that vein. Living armor, to bind whatever sources of power we can together." * Angie scans the empty room with a wary eye. "Where is it?" * Mikel mulls. "So.. how does this work, then? Those who want to give it a shot step forward, then it'll choose?" * Vytor mulls that all over. * Trune looks thoughtful, "I doubt it's that simple." More or less, Mikel. But Ryllan's right. Be serious about this. You'll have to face the guardian it created, one on one. * Mikel manages a faint smile. "Always a bit of a catch." I... know you're probably all sick of tests, but you have to look at it from its point of view. If it's going to devote itself to someone, it wants to be really sure. I'm assuming this guardian will seriously maim or kill whoever it tests should they fail? Up the stakes, I'm assuming? Have you...talked to it? Does it have a personality or anything? And what kind of test are we looking at? Looks like combat. * Tanan looks at Trune, and then at the circle. "I'd imagine so, yes. It's pretty simple in some regards. A test of resolve and strength." I have, Angie. And it does. But... like I said. * Mikel fidgets for a moment, eyeing the circle. "Hrm.... well." * Vytor considers his options. If you don't think you can do it.. don't try. * Tanan smiles. "But I promise you, we've all faced worse all ready." * Niri grins. "Well, I think I'm ready for anything, actually." * Trune considers as well. * Saki speaks up quietly from her corner, face dark. "... If any of them get hurt, I will do a succession of extremely unpleasant things to you." <> I think I could do it, but uh...I doubt I'd be chosen, per say. I'm kind of an...nevermind. * Vytor slides a glance at Trune * Tanan meets Saki's gaze, then nods. Kind of a what, Trune? * Saki makes an aggravated noise combined with something of a sneer as Tanan meets her gaze, and opts to gaze off to one side, not meeting anyone's eye. Uh! Er...an individual. * Mikel mulls for a bit more before nodding, coming to some sort of decision. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained as they say." Yeah, I'm with Mikel on this one. Might as well try it, even if only to give everyone else a chance to see what Tanan's brought in. * Ryllan sighs, "I don't want this thing. I don't think I'm what it's looking for. But, I trust Hylan enough that I think it can make it's own decisions. If I'm what it needs to do whatever it has to do... So be it. I won't falter." Hey Trune, I think you've got as good a chance as anyone. But I guess it's up to you. Heh, you think so? The Guardian might not like mouthy heroic types. He's gonna hate most of us then. * Angie folds her arms and sucks on her lips, peering skeptically into the warding circle. "I'm not armed," she says, "So I'll give you guys first shots." * Mikel lets out a sigh. "Alright. So." * Trune looks at Mikel, "Point taken. Might as well try." So who wants to jump in first? I will, I guess. * Vytor steps aside to let Mikel pass. "Good luck." I'll go next. Good luck, Mikel! Yeah, good luck Mikel. * Niri clasps his shoulder encouragingly * Vytor stands next to Trune and watches. * Mikel takes a deep breath. "Somehow I suspect luck won't factor in, but thanks." With that he takes a few steps forward, looking at Tanan. "Into the circle then?" Hold. This is your choice? All of you? * Saki turns back to the tableau, frowning deeply. I've come this far. No sense in turning back now. * Trune nods, "Yes." * Niri nods decisively * Huwafk is now known as Huw * Tanan considers for a second, then walks up to the circle, a barrier shimmering to life as he approached. He places Misogi up against the barrier and steps back, leaving it hanging in the air. "It will decide." * Saki shakes her head and turns away again, not answering Tanan's question - but keeping a careful eye on proceedings. It? * Angie backs up a step. * Mikel raises an eyebrow. . o O (What kind of test is this?) The armor. Anyone who wishes, touch the barrier. It'll choose one of you to face it. If Mikel is everyone's decision.. let him approach alone. * Tanan smiles. "And whoever it chooses might find the sword useful, in any case." * Angie holds up her hands. "I'm not saying yes or no. If he wants to try, he can try. Sane with anyone." «ooc: same » * Trune looks to the group, "Do we actually even have a sole person chosen?" * Vytor looks a little dubious at all this, but approaches the barrier in any case. * Vytor stops, "Do we?" * Ryllan approaches forward, "I don't think so. Let it choose, anyway. It'll know best what qualities it's looking for. * Mikel nods. "Best it has the final say so to speak." Heh, thought as much. * Trune steps forward. * Vytor shrugs, and approaches the barrier. * Niri steps toward the barrier as well * Ryllan steps forward again, for the GM's benefit. * Mikel offers a bit of a grin towards the other folks as they step up. "Well then.." * Tanan smiles. "I knew I'd found the right people. I believe any of you can do this." Except Trune. <> «ooc: ;_; » * Saki breathes out at length. She looks tense; muscles bunched, she's about ready to hit something, but instead just remains propped against the wall. * Mikel lifts his hand towards the barrier. "Here goes." * Ryllan lifts his hand, "Best of luck, whoever winds up in there." Good luck everyone. The barrier tingles as all the hopeful candidates touch it. Willforce courses over your bodies for a brief moment, holding you in place. The blessed sword Misogi begins to twich and hum with a purpose. Suspended in the air it slides along the outer edge like a pointer... You aren't sure what is controlling it exactly, but one thing is for certain: when all is said and done it hangs over the blue-haired head of Niri like a Sword of Damocles. Looks like Niri's it. Niri? Well, whaddaya know. Then the sword turns rightside-up, waiting for her to reach up and grasp its hilt. * Mikel chuckles. "Not that surprising, if you think about it." * Niri blinks Nah, it's kind of not. Go for it, Littlebit. * Niri reaches up and takes the sword, grinning a bit. "I kind of thought there'd be more to it!" * Vytor gives Niri an encouraging nod. Good luck, Niri. You can do this. * Mikel reaches over to pat her on the back. "Knock 'em dead, and all that." * Angie has both hands clasped over her mouth. From between her interlaced fingers wide eyes watch Niri intently. Good luck Niri. The moment her flesh makes contact with the soft leather that wraps the blade's handle, Niri can't help but wonder briefly how it seems almost like what Leah did. Taking up a blade and facing the unknown -- perhaps Leah also felt something akin to the pull that suddenly grasps her body, yanking her past the field suddenly and onto the stage of battle. ...Oh. I guess that ISN'T all! Okay, well, here I go then... * Niri looks ready for anything, patting Shiro just before she's pulled past the field. Shiro puts his paws up against the field, barking :oo * Vytor steps back. * Mikel edges back a bit, crossing his arms as he watches. "Showtime." << also Niri's hair is purple. silly Lunar cliches. >> * Tanan steps up to the barrier, placing his hands against it. "Are you ready?" * Niri grasps the sword in her hands firmly and nods. "Yeah, I'm ready!" The sword, despite its size is very easy to handle, infusing Niri with a mighty strength. * Tanan nods, speaking quietly. "Then face the guardian." * Niri glances around, waiting for something to happen. She fidgets a bit with impatient anticipation. * Tanan steps forward through the shimmering barrier as though it wasn't there, drawing his sword in one smooth motion and he walks towards Niri. He stops after a few steps, pointing the blade at her. "Now, Nirika, we'll see if you are worthy." ..? * Mikel ...blinks. "Oh jeez." What the...hell!? * Saki grits her teeth, eyes suddenly filled with fury. "You bastard--! So help me, if you--!" OK, this is unexpected. In a cruel twist, it appears to all the Tanan and the Guardian are one in the same! Saki's going to tear you apart after this, I think. ....Hey. That's not fair! * Saki feels a hand on her shoulder holding her back. It's Angie, hanging behind her. * Niri grins and shakes her head, however. "Okay then, let's get to it." She gives a resigned shrug and goes into battle stance. And so with Niri's consent, the circle closes and the test begins in earnest! * Saki hisses through her teeth, not starting at Angie's touch but keeping her eyes damn well riveted on Tanan. "--remember what you said," she growls, and at length leans back up against the wall. * Tanan grins humorlessly. "Indeed." >> The Hero's Trial! Niri vs Tanan! * Vytor looks between Saki and Tanan, but says nothing. >> Round 1 >> Declaration Phase. >> The Misogi in Niri's hand pulses with power. In this strange space it appears it's will to avoid striking good beings is nulled. * Tanan looks down the length of his sword at Niri. "Defend yourself!" * Niri nods, under no illusions that he's going to go easy on her. >> Battle Phase. >> Niri's action. >> Song of Shielding is sung! Niri's Stamina rises by 37%! >> Tanan's action. * Tanan rushes towards Niri, slashing for her chest * Niri tries to dodge by sliding backward. >> Tanan's blade grazes Niri's chest, as she's unable to dodge completely. 91 damage! This is the first time she's ever seen him strike something, and how ironic it is her on the other end... >> Round 2 * Niri grits her teeth with the sting, but tries to refocus herself for a counterattack. * Tanan hrmphs, moving to continue his attack >> Niri's action. * Niri strikes out with Misogi! >> Theheroic girl's assault nails Tanan in a serious of two strikes, before he can twist away. 67! 71! >> Tanan's action. * Tanan staggers back a step as he fails to parry, regaining his footing and jumping forward again, attacking! >> The professor's counterstrike slashes Niri's shoulder, dealing 84 damage! * Niri sucks in her breath a little, sweat trickling down the back of her neck. He's certainly not holding back, that's for sure. She frowns, trying to think fast. >> Round 3 * Tanan takes a step backwards, coils of dark energy emanating from his hand as he raises it. Right. Time to try my own power. *Niri mutters this to herself, then focuses, gathering energy around her as she begins to sing, softly at first. Gradually her song increases, a wordless melody filled with power. She lets loose with all the strength she has...* Song of the ages...MUSICA UNIVERSALIS! >> Niri sings out her heart as the cosmos is her accompanyment, a wave of power washing over Tanan! >> Tanan suffers 322 damage! >> Tanan's action. * Tanan falls back a step, almost falling to a knee. He makes a sharp motion with his hand, sending the ball of darkness at Niri. >> Niri's equipment fights the darkborne attack, but it still saps her resolve greatly. Hp reduced by 25%! lost 84 HP. >> Round 4 * Niri reels, vulnerable for a moment after her attack. She doubles over momentarily, then struggles upright, thinking and evaluating the damage. * Tanan rests his free hand on his chest, the point of his sword temporarily dropping to the ground. He leans forwards slightly, breathing heavily. "Well... done... But it's not over yet!" Don't worry, I'm not out of tricks yet, either. >> Pulling a new trick from his repertroire, Tanan acts premeptively with a spell! * GAYO_NEEDS_NO_IRC (foon@stjhnbsu83w-156034251091.pppoe-dynamic.nb.aliant.net) has joined #lunar-iog2 * Niri closes her eyes and begins to sing a wordless melody, its tone clear and piercing - lovely in a way, yet painful, so that the listener can't help but wince. As she sings, she opens her green eyes and focuses on Tanan, frowning in concentration and willing his life force out of him and into herself. "Song of Light!" * Angie (foon@stjhnbsu83w-156034251091.pppoe-dynamic.nb.aliant.net) Quit (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by GAYO_NEEDS_NO_IRC))) * GAYO_NEEDS_NO_IRC is now known as Angie * Mikel sets mode: +o Angie * Etirfk (~Nehn@dynamic-acs-24-239-125-230.zoominternet.net) has joined #lunar-iog2 * Mikel sets mode: +o Etirfk * Tanan (~Nehn@dynamic-acs-24-239-125-230.zoominternet.net) Quit (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by Etirfk))) * Etirfk is now known as Tanan * Tanan presses his hand against his chest, releasing a wave of healing energy with a speed than is unlike himself. He raises his sword again, preparing once more to fight >> Tanan's Restoration restores 272 HP. >> Niri's song lashes out hungrily, but the Professor-turned-guardian's ring blocks the worst of it. Niri drains 88 HP! >> Round 5 * Tanan sags a little under the effects of the song, returning his hand to its position, another wave of healing energies forming >> Tanan premptively heals yet again! >> 272 regained. >> Niri's action. * Niri grits her teeth. "If this is the price to pay, don't think I won't pay it. The song doesn't die that easily! MUSIC UNIVERSALIS!" Once more she lets loose with a burst of song, a strange melody that sends a tingling rush through every listener's spine. >> Niri's song only incerases in power it seems, paining the Guardian for 366 damage! >> Round 6 * Tanan stumbles back, nearly knocked off his feet by the song. He falls to a knee before he rights himself, staring up at Niri from a crouch * Niri holds the sword horizontally in front of her, drawing power from it. Her expression is focused but unreadable. Hrmph.. I.. was designed.. to take far more than this! * Saki watches the fight impassively, apparently not impressed with either combatant when Tanan goes down on one knee. Designed? * Niri frowns, looking troubled. Huh? There's been too many secrets in this whole mess! * Trune has a confused look on his face when Tanan says 'designed', but keeps silent. Shiro whines from beyond the light barrier. * Mikel grits his teeth, having been watching the fight rather closely. "Bad feeling..." If I win this battle, can I expect some answers? Ha! Ask whatever you want, then. >> Tanan yet again heals swiftly for 273. >> Niri's action. * Niri retaliates swiftly, determined not to let up. "MUSICA UNIVERSALIS!" The swords swirls with her power as she unleashes the song. * Niri frowns, looking troubled, however. >> Niri's song once again reverberates through the circle, now dealing 416 to the test proctor himself. >> Round 7 * Tanan closes his eyes momentarily, straightening up. He discards his sword, bringing his hands together. A small fireball begins to orbit them, joined by a piece of ice, and finally by a thunderbolt. Enough of this. Show me, Nirika! Prove that you have the power to stand against Zophar. Make this shot count... ...or it's the last you'll ever take. You want it? You got it. I'm not going to fail now. Too many people are counting on me. >> Niri's action. * Niri gathers power into her voice, letting loose her song once more. She pours everything into it, all that she is...all that has been passed down to her from her parents and their own strength. She pours her desire to stand with her friends into it, her desire to rescue Leah. "MUSICA UNIVERSALIS!" >> Niri strains her body to it's limit, sining a final etude for all she believes in. The song falters only briefly, as Tanan suffers 302 damage! * Tanan thrusts his hands forward, lauching a blaze of elements into the force of the song! >> Tanan feels his strength ebbing, but he too puts the last of his effort into trying to repulse the song's power. >> A ball of elemental force manages to break free, striking Niri for 239 points of fire damage. The rest explode harmlessly in a dramatic climax. Tanan is Ko'd! * Mia_Ausa (~n@pool-71-162-65-246.bstnma.east.verizon.net) Quit (Quit: ) >> VICTORY! * Tanan is blasted backwards by the force, striking the edge of the barrier and falling to the ground * Niri doubles over, gasping for breath. She scrambles forward to see what condition Tanan is in, stumbling as she does so. * Vytor stops himself from running forward. * Angie leans forward, her hand aching to reach through the barrier. * Mikel twitches, looking like he might try to dash in despite the barrier. * Tanan lies face down, up against the barrier. It's difficult to say whether he's moving or not, as most of him is hidden by his robes. The barrier remains empowered, though it begins to fade and crack over time as its master is struck down... You two OK? * Angie lowers her hand and her eyes, taking a step forward. She runs a hand along the edge of the barrier, feeling the charge against her fingertips. * Trune steps forward once it's apparent the barrier is starting to fade a little. He looks very concerned. * Ryllan pushes through the barrier as quickly as possible, finding a crack and pushing through to Niri, "You alright there, Nir'?" * Saki starts to stalk forwards from her position against the wall, moving slowly up alongside the rest of the group. * Vytor pushes his way into the barrier, but heads for Tanan instead of Niri. * Mikel moves forward, finding a crack to try to shove through as well. "Niri! Tanan!" Hey Tanan, you still with us? * Tanan doesn't reply, lying still * Angie takes a step back as the others rush forward. She chews her lip and watches through the press of limbs, paralyzed with concern. * Trune pushes his way through, not sure whether to make his way to Niri or Tanan first. * Niri drops down next to Tanan, feeling for a pulse. * Trune figures since Tanan might possibly be lying dead and Niri's not, the choice now becomes kinda obvious. * Vytor steps back, figuring he'd best leave the healing to the healers. * Trune kneels in front of Tanan quickly, summoning up healing energies as quickly as he can. * Niri 's heart pounds. This was NOT the kind of sacrifice she'd been expecting to make. "Tanan, come on, answer me!" * Saki moves closer to the edge of the circle, almost sneering down at Tanan. "... get up. For all you've just put her through, you owe her that. Get up." * Vytor steps away, his expression flat. * Mikel makes his way over towards Tanan as well, sort of hovering over the other two. "Dammit, Tanan, don't do this." >> Trune attempts to use Kiss of Dawn! But the healing mantra has no effect, for its intended target appears to be... phasing out of existence. Oh...oh shit! W-what the hell?! * Tanan feels cold to the touch... and then no longer feels like anything at all. His belongings clatter to the ground as his body quickly fades, leaving nothing but an empty pile of clothing. Wait, no! * Niri kicks the side of the barrier with all her strength. "NO!" * Saki frowns at that, then looks back at the elevator in silence. "..." she explains helpfully, then stalks off towards it. Niri's kick sends the barrier shattering into dusty motes of fading willforce. Dammit Johnathan, WHERE ARE YOU when I want answers?! * Trune looks at the pile of clothing Tanan left behind with sheer befuddlement. . o O (What just happened here?) * Ryllan catches hold of Niri's shoulders, talking softly, "Calm down, Nirika. It'll be alright. I promise." * Mikel stares in utter shock. "...you're kidding me, you've got to be kidding me." * Niri tries to shake Ryllan off. "Unless someone can assure me that Tanan isn't dead, then NO, it won't!" * Angie 's hands fly up to shield her face from the burst of energy. It rushes past her harmlessly; she remains on guard a moment, then begins a slow pace around the circle. Her eyes never leave the bundle of clothes. * Saki looks up at the ceiling just above the entrance to the lift, narrowing her eyes and counting under her breath before whirling around and yelling at the middle of the room. "--well?! She's done your test! Come on, then! A deal was a deal, and Tanan or no Tanan we're going onwards! Niri suddenly feels a tingling sensation as the shards of the broken magic begin swirling about her form. * Niri blinks * Ryllan tightens his grip, "Get ahold of yourself. You signed up for this. Now you've got a job to do. Keep to it." * Niri grits her teeth and stops fighting Ryllan, taking a deep breath. * Niri nods haltingly to Ryllan, waiting to see what the magic shards will do. At the center of the mealstrom, bits of the willforce begin to clump together slowly. First tiny molecules, then chains of light, then shards of rock-hard crystal swathing her torso.// * Ryllan lets go of Niri, stepping back to let the shards work. * Niri feels distinctly uncomfortable, but she forces herself to stay still and accept what she paid the price for. * Mikel opens his mouth to possibly say something rather harsh towards Ryllan, though he ends up biting his tounge as the magic starts. Now...that's different... * Saki 's fists are clenched as she continues to stare dead at a spot just above the centre of the room. It registers that something is happening to Niri - but she seems more concerned with keeping an eye for something else. It is a strange sensation, as soon Nirika Salyan is garbed in battle armor of clear-black quartz. Inside its depths swirls the enrgies of time and the cosmos. Within its embrace, she feels secure -- nothing can pierce this armor of righteousness. It is as if her father is hugging her protectively. In her head and through the strange ethereal air, a voice begins to speak... * Tanan 's voice echoes slightly, but is clearly recognizable. "Well done, Niri. You did even better than I hoped."" * Saki rolls her eyes further upwards to the ceiling and rakes her hair with a hand, cursing something under her breath. "... I knew it. Damn you, you bastard." * Niri straightens, looking about as she listens. "...Tanan?" She sniffs and rubs at her tears. * Angie slows, then stops, turns to face the circle, and folds her arms. >> Niri has gained the first artifact equip piece: Warden's Armor! All of Tanan's Stamina and 30% of his Willpower is channeled into her! Artifact Spells are Enabled! Tanan has learned "Phase Barrier" - AA: Completely avoid next offensive action. ...down here, Niri. * Tanan 's voice seems to be coming from the armor itself.. and when he speaks, the patterns in it change slightly. What's going on here? * Niri blinks, confused. "All right, what...is going on?" Tanan is talking. Also you're wearing him. * Saki blinks, then lowers her head to regard the armor for a long, long beat. Then she makes an unpleasant noise in the back of her throat and stalks away from the group. * Mikel just kind of stares. "...that's... kind of, uh." * Vytor watches Saki leave, then returns his attention to Niri and the new 'Tanan' .... * Trune shakes his head, not quite beliving all that's happened, "This is so fucked up." ...I should warn you that I am extremely pissed off right now. ...can't hit me without hitting yourself. Session Time: Sun Jul 15 00:00:00 2007 ...she could just take off the armor. Didn't say I was going to hit you. If you're not careful I might have to beat up Trune though. What? What'd I do? O_o Shiro sniffs at Niri curiously, whining for a minute * Niri 's voice wavers through this vague attempt at humor. Frankly, I need a drink. Oh, and also, You need to learn some lessons about telling us things like this. You bastard. * Trune is too dazed right now to realize that was a joke. * Ryllan manages to keep his voice deadpan. ...What Ryllan said. * Mikel rubs his forehead. "Yeah, I'm with Ryllan. What the hell, Prof." I could not tell you. I'm sorry. This was important. More important than I can say. * Niri picks up Shiro and hugs him, tears still glistening on her cheeks. I don't suppose it mattered to you how we all might feel about this, huh? Kind of hard to pay a price when you don't know what that price is. It's not afir. << Gah fair >> * Angie snorts, a vicious sound like tearing the air. "I'm hearing that a lot lately! It's getting harder and harder to buy." * Saki growls from off to one corner, rumbling out another curse. "You're damn lucky you picked the one way to make certain I don't punch your face in." * Trune shakes his head, "You can be pissed off, you guys...but what's done is done." * Mikel lets out a sigh. "Is this... uh, permanent, then?" * Niri shakes her head at Trune. "I'm not sure ANY of you are quite aware just how strong an ability I have to deny reality." You'll understand, Niri. In time. Literally. My mind will open to you now. My strength is yours. I won't apologize, because this was the only way. And this is.. why I was made. ...Doesn't make it any more fair. I'm not angry that you did what you did, Tanan. I'm just annoyed you didn't tell us from the start. We've been working blind, and you can't work effectively blind. We can't do that anymore. * Angie lunges forward in a single step, waving a chastising finger in Niri's face. "I knew there was something up with you!" she says. Seeing Niri's reaction, she steps back, fumbles for a second, and wags the finger at the armor instead. "It was too weird, someone so young teaching such a weird class." She harrumphs, recalibrating tone for less sulkiness. "I suppose you can't tell us why you couldn't tell us before?" Out of curiosity...you can't um...hear MY thoughts or anything, can you? Why you were made? So then...That's why you called him 'Master'. Huh. * Mikel frowns, thinking for a moment. "Explains the lack of anything really bad from the suit breach back in Bluetooth." He lets out a sigh, shaking his head. I'm sorry. I'm tired. Too many questions at once. There's nothing more to tell. I exist to stop Zophar. Yes, I can pick up surface thoughts and emotions, Niri, but we'll discuss what you can do about it later, if it bothers you that much. And stop waving that finger at me or I'll... I'll.. complain a little. I guess. No arms. * Niri lets out a bitter, choking laugh. * Saki hangs her head, something of a dark humour coming to her voice. "Some ultimate weapon you are that you can't take care of one finger." * In a whirl Angie is facing the other direction, eyes squinted shut and a hand over her mouth. She shakes her head, muttering garbled, angry words into her fingers, and paces back out of the circle. * Trune keeps quiet, knowing anything said now will probably be taken very badly. * Saki sobers immediately. Her eyes are dark and she's still glowering heavily, but she's all business. "... so. What now?" ... The million silver question, that. * Angie runs her fingers over her scalp. "Is the Headmistress even here?" she asks, facing the wall. Her voice is oddly calm now. Now we - Goddess damned! Did anyone think about that damn mech Emiria found? * Niri stiffens at the mention of Haylee. ...right now I go run out and find a TIME person. ...I think I'm going to have to have a talk with Haylee at some point. Also my parents. * Tanan is gradually getting quieter as he talks. "We need to leave here. Lure. Questions. And a message, yes." Also Tanan. Hopefully without too much shouting. We can do it quicker than TIME, I think. That's what I figured. We still need to talk to her, though. * Niri blinks. "Lure? Oh..." she looks even more downcast. Unless we can just, uh, bamf over there I'm not sure. Niri, those wings you have... I suggest we go and see Lure. No telling how much time he has left. Hm? Do you think they could get us to Vulcannon Labs? It's important that Emiria doesn't get her hands on anything that could help her. Yeah. Last I saw him, there's not a lot of time left. * Angie presses the elevator button and the doors roll open smoothly. she steps inside and takes a long look at her reflection in the glass. "When we get back down I need to go get some stuff. I'll catch up with you guys at the infirmary." * Mikel frowns. "If they can, a few of us should head for the labs while the rest see Lure, I think." Surely Haylee can send a message. And please, Niri, cheer up. You're going to make me cry at this rate and I'm not even sure I can. It'd serve you right. * Saki hauls herself to her feet, nodding to Niri, her voice carefully deadpan. "No, I think a lot of shouting will do." She rakes her hair with a hand, heading for the lift. "... let's go, then." * Niri sniffs sullenly Niri. * Niri looks up at Trune. * Trune grins a little, "Chin up. Good's gonna come, even from this." Yeah, well, maybe... *She sighs* Well. Let's go see Lure. * Saki regards Niri - and Tanan - for a long moment, then shakes her head. "... what happens, happens," she simply says, and jabs the button. * Mikel nods, walking over and placing an arm around her shoulders. "Like he says. We still have Tanan in some form, at least. Harder to annoy now though." * Vytor starts moving people towards the elevator. "As cruel as this is to say, life does go on. And we have people that are still counting on us." * Trune grins a little more, "Makes total sense why he didn't pick me though. Can you imagine if I got the armor. Only one of us would survive." * Tanan actually manages a sigh, though Niri can feel the crystals near her shoulder shifting to accomodate the sound. "I'm going to be apologizing for a long time, aren't I?" Yeah, Professor. Better suck it up. Must have hated my driving that much. And you have no idea, Prof. Probably'll be your lot in life. Oh, you'd better believe it. * Angie looks down at the armor with an impassive frown. Her own face stares back at her from the smooth surface. "I still intend to bitch you out, you know," she says. "You don't get out of it just because you're armor." ...You know, Professor, I'm pretty sure having a student wear you counts as inappropriate contact by the Handbook. Is the school liable for this? * Saki smirks unpleasantly, and chimes in. "Captive audience." Do me one favor, then, Niri. My stuff.. you might find some use out of it. Grab it.. and can we leave? I'm so.. tired. And I can't maintain this place forever, with him gone. * Niri nods, then picks up the gear lying on the ground. Is... the headmaster actually gone? Or just out of contact? * Vytor continues herding people towards the elevator. << pause for a sec for loot!) >> >> The pile of equipment yields the following discarded equipment... Warden's Longsword Mus +39 [§ 1950] Gaurdian's Robes Sta +33 [§ 1650] Guardian's Circlet Tal +39 [§ 1950] Lunar Bracers Dex +30, Resist Dark [§ 1900] Gaurdian's Boots Agi +22 [§ 1100] Guardian's Necklace Wil +7, Tal +8 [§ 1500] Terran Ring Resist Earth, Plant, Water [§ 1800] Solar Ring Tal +9, Resist Light, Fire [§ 1900] Star Light x1 1A: Heal 50 MP. [§ 500] << blah. evil spaces.. >> * Saki smacks the button with considerably more force than is required, and glances over at Mikel. "... split off and get to a messenger on the way. You're fast enough, yes?" And so, it seems, just about everything familiar is changing forever for the tired group of Seekers. The elevator ride is uneventful, and the trip to the clinic speedy. What would Lure have to say about this development or did he always know? S'what I was gonna do anyways. I'll catch you guys in a bit. Tanan...you're a hell of a guy. ...look, I said I was sorry. * Mikel dashes off while the rest of the group goes off. Coming upon his room, Laike is watching guard outside the door. He salutes you, trying to look upbeat in the sea of bad news. * Angie splits off from the others when they make it to the quad. She catches up with them a few minutes later, fully decked out for travel. The slash of her holster strap can be seen through her open coat, and she has the enormous cannon she bought from the labs slung over one shoulder. * Niri appears to Laike's eyes in a very bad way as she approaches Lure's room and nods in greeting to her father's friend. * Vytor follows quietly, still thinking over what he just witnessed. [Laike] Hey, there you are, Niri. You doing alright? Lucia was just in there visiting the Green Dragon. I've kind of been eavesdropping on them.. but don't tell her that, aye? * Niri nods. "I'm...okay. So what's going on in there?" * Saki glances across at Laike. "Is she still in there?" * Angie is a granite statue; even her soft lines seem harsh and rigid under the weight of her bad mood. [Laike] Yep. They've shut the door for some privacy. From what I caught they almost sounded like family, but then enemies? It's really confusing. [Laike] I won't stop you lot though. ...That is confusing, but confusing is nothing new after the day we've been having. * Niri steps up to the door and raps on it. The voices from the other side that are dulling chatting pause then the door opens a crack, revealing the middle-aged Lucia's face, framed by cerulean hair. * Saki nods, and gives the door an unpleasant look. "Good. You wouldn't be able to. Neither will she." She steps aside to give Niri just enough time to knock, before barging past and in without waiting for an answer. Hi Mom. Can we come in? [Lure] Niri. This is a surprise! I suppose I can't really say no... Um...good, 'cause I don't think Saki would accept no. The woman backs off and opens the entrance fully, taking her place upon a cushy chair in the corner. * Vytor stands outside the room for now, content to wait and listen. The wizened Lure is laying flat on a hospital bed, as a few hovering Adept devices measure his vitals. He cracks a mischievous smile as they enter. [Lure] Yo. * Niri blinks, taken aback at his manner. * Huw is now known as Huwnap * Saki barges inside but doesn't... actually do anything. Rather, she stands almost expectantly in the open space of the room, watching proceedings hawkishly. Lure... I am glad you're still with us. * Angie lifts a hand in an unenthusiastic wave. "Yo," she says. She gestures to Niri with a sweep of the same hand. "You guys know about this?" Hey Lure. * Ryllan steps inside, "Lure, Lucia. Meet the new and improved Tanan. If you hadn't already." [Lure] He's a little sparse on conversation... too much speech will shave minutes off what remains of his time with us. * Trune gives Angie a look. << Lucia said that. >> For the record. This is ridiculously unfair. Tanan turns into armor and Lure has hours left with us. I'd like to register a formal complaint with the universe, Mom. [Lure] Yeah. Looks good. Guess he chose the prettiest one, huh? ...Did the old man just hit on her? * Trune shudders just a little. Lucia just shakes her head. "I'm sorry for all this Niri. Even i didn't know THAT was Johnathan's true weapon." Yeah, well, I always liked and respected him...but he's got one sick sense of humor, I'll tell you that. * Niri surprisingly does not seem offended and just smiles a little at Lure. * Tanan sounds a little sulky. "It wasn't a joke." [Lucia] Twisting space and time can do that to a person... but, he's given you a sense of the true purpose now. Zophar coming back... * Saki glares daggers at a spot on the wall approximately two feet upwards and to the left of Lucia. Out of deference for the dying, it seems, she's not raising her voice yet. * Angie fixes Niri with a dark, narrow-eyed stare; detatched and appraising, but not hostile. A long moment passes, and then she nods, as if in affirmation of a question she asked herself. Her eyes slide down to the armor. "It makes sense," she says. "She's the heroine." * Niri raises an eyebrow at Angie. "Huh?" To Tanan, she says, "Joke or no, it was still rather cruel. I'm going to have a talk with him later! If he's, you know, alive." lucia sighs and sinks into her chair, folding her arms over her lap. "Perhaps I was wrong to change the world as I did..." Angie, if you're seriously pouty about that get over yourself. [Lure] Hey. Dn't let Hiro hear that, Lucia. * Angie is looking at Lure again. "You've had it pretty rough, Lure. I still don't know who the hell you are, exactly --" here her gaze rests disapprovingly on Lucia for a moment before returning to lure. "--but you've been real good about everything." A pause. "I'm sorry." No one cares that it's not all about you, and I certainly don't give nor ever gave a flying floo about Niri having special parents. Unless I'm wrong which I'm kinda hoping I am because, seriously. [Lure] Oh, you never got the 411 huh? Lure coughs. * Saki turns to Lucia fully, now, her expression stony. "We need to know everything. ... I am not even vaguely joking. None of this 'I cannot tell you'. None of this 'It's not important'. ... Because I'm saying here and now it all is." I can't judge that, Mom, since I don't really understand how you changed the world exactly. But...well, I'm sure you did what you thought was best. And whatever the result, that's the way things are now, right? * Angie frowns at Trune, squinting at him like he made a bad smell. But only for a second -- Lure speaks, and commands her attention. * Saki glances across at Lure, and raises her chin - looking just a little haughty, a little Rachel. "... the only reason I'm not demanding it now is out of deference." Her piece apparently said, she stalks to Lure's bedside. [Lure] If you passes this test, then you know what it's like to fight for what you love, Niri. I did the best i could when Gods asked it of me. And my heart asked it of me. << gah >> << that was Lucia again :P >> [Lucia] If you passes this test, then you know what it's like to fight for what you love, Niri. I did the best i could when Gods asked it of me. And my heart asked it of me. [Lure] Angie - closer, hun. I'm only going to.. explain this once. * Saki all but collapses into a chair nearby Lure, rubbing at her face with a hand feverishly. When she lowers it, she looks weary, tired, and perhaps shaking a little - but she still spares a nod for Lure. * Angie nods soberly and steps in close, leaning over. * Vytor continues to listen from the doorframe * Niri looks like she wants to say something to her mom, but she looks away for a moment instead. Then she goes over and gives Lucia a hug. [Lure] Lucia's too worrisome for your feelings, so I'm going to give it to you straight. [Lure] This world we live in now was created when the Truth Seekers you all know and love and are partially comatose used Althena's Power with their own to change the world. Lucia fought them at first, but then they all joined together. [Lure] Althena seemed to have had a plan when she created that room deep in the Blue Spire of Old Lunar that spawned yours truly. [Lure] And yes, Lucia is /that Lucia/ who killed Zophar with her love Hiro. * Mikel slips into the room, out of breath from having run all over campus. He keeps quiet as he edges over to where the party is though. [Lure] And this dashing adventurer tried to go to the Blue Star with her when she returned to sleep... it didn't work out too well though! * That revelation earns Lucia another flinty look; but it passes as Angie's attention returns to the old young man. * Saki listens in impassive silence, pausing only to flick her eyes over to Mikel. One eyebrow raises slightly. * Mikel gives Saki a quick nod. [Lure] So Hiro had to be put into suspended animation, and the Blue Star restored to save his life. Lucia is hugged and starts crying as he relates the tale. [Lure] But this was also her mission from Althena. fancy that! And so was I created, to move all the souls onto the old worn-torn planet... [Lure] First Lucia had to pretend she was Queen Virtue. And conquer Lunar, which was in the hands of warring factions of the Cult. * Niri blinks, not having heard this part about her father... * Niri glances at her mother momentarily, then looks back at Lure. [Lure] Then, the Dragons were subjugated by the Four Heroes and their Aura merged with a body a great bioloist named Sinel made. [Lure] Thi was a vessel to resurrect Althena, so Lucia could ask her for guidance how to save the world.. if fighting to save the man she loved was right. [Lure] Naturally, the Truth seekers were pissed off at miss Evil Holy Empire and tried to stop the ceremony, with mxied results. Althena lived again after everything. She...did? [Lure] In that brief span, she told them all what neded to be done. And then proceeded to be slain at her request, to rejoin with Alex, the old Dragonmaster in the great beyond. [Lure] Then, well, they all figured out that the world of Lunar was itself a kind of waking dream -- an illusion. [Lure] Humanity was put there after they nearly destroyed themselves in the devestation War and served the evil Zophar... [Lure] The Prophets were the first to figure that out, but they were brutally killed. Poor guys... [Lure] Johnathan found their legacy in his treatise, and was labeled a heretic because of it. [Lure] So, to make a long story short, the 'Unraveling' everyone calls it was actually CAUSED by them, not a sort of accident. [Lure] Lunar turned back into a lifeless moon, and all the people's souls led by yours truly zapped over to the Blue Star to work on restoring it! Lure takes a breath then promptly starts hacking. Lucia is utterly speechless. ...Holy crap. That's...wow. [Lure] Y..yeah. And now Zophar's not dead. darn prophecies being true... ...I can't decide if I'm upset about that or not. * Mikel just blinks a couple of times, glancing over at Lucia. Well, if the prophecy's true, he gets to ruin the utopia. Very upsetting. [Lure] It's not Lucia's fault, really. On ancient Earth she was tasked by this by Althena herself. [Lure] And also made immortal as one of the 'perks'. Not, I submit, if we gut him. * Angie takes in a breath herself. She purses her lips to hold in her questions. A flutter if her eyelids and a twinkle in the corner of her eye promise tears, but none come. She lets out a rattling breath and carefully forms her words: "Can Zophar ever die?" * Niri is too emotionally exhausted to make any kind of judgment on all this. She just nods thoughtfully as she takes in all the information. * Saki stares off into the distance, looking through rather than at Lure. He'd better be able to die. I'm not sure the prices we've had to pay are worth it, otherwise. [Lure] He vowed to.. return... to destroy everything, rather than take it over... He'll die. All things die....eventually. [Lucia] This is his last chance -- So he won't come back then if we carve him up this time? If Althena can die, so can Zophar. * Angie pulls back from the bed, hugging her arms to her chest and staring at her feet. "But he came back after the first time. Will he come back again, like the souls reincarnating?" We can make him wish he could, if not. I _will_ end him. [Lure] Nah. Zophar isn't like you or me. It's a little like Althena. She kept reincarnating over and over again till she chose to become mortal and die like a human. [Lure] She really believed in us, see... but Zophar, just wanted to feast on our power, brought out through eternal suffering, greed, and war. [Lure] The truth is that Zophar came back as a sort of side effect of the whole soul-migration, i think. * Angie opens her mouth, then closes it again. "Will Althena come back too?" [Lure] Whatever was left of his tattered essence piggybacked on some weak souls and got here... [Lure] If he is destroyed again, this time he's down for the count! Wiped out! Owned right good! *cough* If that's the case, shouldn't he be seriously weakened? [Lucia] Lure.. please.. you're going to run out of power at this rate! Lucia hushes him, trying to find her balance after the huge revelation of her past. * Mikel mulls. "Wonder where Emiria and Leah fit in with this mess." But...Mom, what he has to tell us is important. [Lucia] Zophar's only holding on due to using the souls of his ancient servants. people like Emiria. And Leah.. or should I say Ghaleon. * Mikel glances at Lucia. "Is there a way to snap them out of it?" ...That's another thing I don't understand. Why the heck is Leah suddenly Ghaleon? Is his spirit possessing her, or something? Do we know how many of them there are? Leah always seemed so normal. Are there people like that all over, just waiting to go crazy? [Lucia] I'm sad to say, but Leah and Emiria are not like Saki. It is not two souls joined in one body -- rather they ARE the reincarnations of ancient servants of the dark. They just did not realize it until now. ... * Saki continues to stare off into space, lost in her thoughts. [Lucia] But that's not to say they are beyond salvation, either. Both have a human heart, and even Ghaleon sided with the light once. So there's a chance, then. Good. Any thoughts as to how one might accomplish this salvation? [Lucia] You have to make them realize they are being used to revive him. He cares nothing about their lives, only his destruction of all that lives. [Lucia] Any promises of power and glory are empty.. the same ones he used to enslave the governments of Old Earth and worship him. We'd have to prove that fairly concretely, though. It's not like they're going to belive us if we just start making claims. * Mikel rubs his forehead. "Was hoping prying that sword out of her hands would be enough." There's no way that Ghaleon is totally evil, if he's really Leah. Although...I don't really get how he could be reincarnated as a different gender, but I suppose that's not really a question for right now. [Lucia] Lure told you what I did in the past. I, too, was not without my share of deeds I regret... [Lucia] Hiro tries to be caring and not pry, but while he slept I waged war on Lunar for a good cause. * Saki comes back to reality, it seems, and checks upon Lure as best she can with little knowledge. * Angie adjusts the strap that holds the enormous cannon to her back. "So," she says, announcing the word decisively, "How do we kill him? Is it enough to go after the agents?" Lure looks antsy to speak, but is biting his tongue between slight shivers. The indicators are oscillating to near-warning levels. [Lucia] The only way to destroy him is to collect the relics of Lunar's ancient heroes, scattered about the planet. * Trune looks at Lucia, then to the group, "We can talk about this later. Lure doesn't have a lot of time left." * Mikel glances at Lure, then at the indicators and sighs. * Angie exhales in relief. That almost sounds easy after the past week. "Okay," she says, "I can do that." She seems to be telling herself. [Lucia] Working with this 'armor' Johnathan created was probably the plan all along,. * Saki is apparently ignoring the conversation, watching Lure with whatever counts as concern for her. "... rest," she commands quietly. [Lure] Guh, hey. I got one more important thing t'say. [Lure] I can at least do one more thing to help you guys out. Since I'm such a nice guy... ..? [Lure] It probably freaked you out when Tanan did his whole armor-trick, yeah? * Mikel deadpans. "Just a bit." You...could say that. Yes. ...mumblemumblemumble Lure begins glowing a bit more fiercely, as his body turns into a soft, green light. The shoruded clothing on his burns away, as he's just a being of pure luminescence. * Saki watches in silence. << er him >> . o O (Whoa...) ...Oh man don't tell me. Don't tell me! You too? * Mikel frowns. Strangely, the boots on his feet remain intact. * Ryllan blinks. Then again, slowly. * This time Angie does not step back. This time she stands her ground, one hand on the side of the bed, staring at the spot where Lure lay, the impression that his body left in the blankets. She stands there, and she watches. [Lure] These kicks have seen their share of the Blue Star... how about you go and use them to kick some Destroyer ass for me? ...I give up. Reality is too weird for me anymore. Lucia blinks in surprise. "Lure... don't tell me you're...?" * Ryllan can't help it. He bursts out laughing. * Mikel turns and looks at Ryllan. * Trune can't help but crack a grin. * Saki actually breaks her silence, a nasty little smirk on her face. "Hmph. Your kicks versus my punches. We'll see who does better." Lure... * Mikel shakes his head. "...is this going to become a new thing, or something?" Lure's light-body melds into the green boots, which eminate a windy essence. They grow winged accents and seem to embody speed itself. * Ryllan looks at Mikel, "Weren't you listening?" Or, wait, maybe you didn't get here in time for that. * Niri 's eyes shine in spite of herself, eyeing the boots admiringly. Anyway, we get to help Niri accessorize. It's the only way to beat Zophar. * Saki waits respectfully until the process is over, then she scrapes back her chair, getting to her feet. For a long moment, she stares down at where Lure lay. * Angie drums her fingers on the bedframe. "How many of these relics do people end up dying for, Lucia?" [Lure] ...wait till you see the rest of the ensemble. See ya round', Seekers... ...thanks Lure, for everything. Bye, Lure. Thank you... Thank you, Lure. ...Accesorizing is how to defeat the looming dark threat. *He shakes his head again* Well, thanks, Lure. [Lucia] He was almost like a son i never had... ...Mom. Please. Lucia sighs as the bed is empty of all but the stylish boots. "Angie, I don't know." Thinking of my boots as my brother is just a little too weird after the day I've had. [Lucia] But it's all we have now, without Althena's aid. * Saki turns away, starting to stalk out of the room. When nearly out of the door, she glances back over her shoulder, ire in her eyes. "... if we had learnt that weeks or even days ago, such trivial information wouldn't have had to come from a man's deathbed." ... * Angie whips around to stare Lucia down. She spears her with an incisive, probing stare, looking directly into her eyes in search of deception. Finding none, the indignation leaks out of her, leaving her spent. "Okay," she says, nodding. * Ryllan shakes his head, "Niri... take them. They're yours now. Lucia... No more secrets, alright? If not for us, or for the world. For Lure. We ask, you answer in full, to the best of your ability. Understood?" His voice leaves no question. >> Niri gains the second piece of Artifact equipment: Lure's Boots! Tanan's Agility and a portion of his Willpower are channeled into her! Tanan learns the spell "Green Dragon Vigor" - OS: Choose an action; you execute it premptively. * Niri sighs and picks up the boots, melancholy but still admiring them. * Vytor steps aside so Saki can leave the room unimpeded * Saki appears to be staying put - for now, at least. The glare doesn't leave Lucia's face for an instant. Well, at least Lure had an awesome fashion sense with his gift... it figures. Right... so. I got the message off to both the Doc and Miss Vulcanon. It's a safe bet they'll keep that thing under lockdown. Good * Tanan has gone strangely quiet We should head there anyway. [Lucia] There really is nothing more to say. I was Althena's chosen apostle once.. but now I'm just a brave adventurer's wife. A mother as well. That's nice, but we may need your advice... and your unique perspective on Zophar. I wouldn't want you trying to spare our feelings. Yeah, Mom. In the future, if you know anything that could help...please just tell it to us straight. [Lucia] I do ask one thing of you Niri, and friends... What's that? * Mikel blows out a bit of air. "Could, unless there's somewhere we need to go." He glances over at Lucia. [Lucia] You need to cross the ocean called the Atlantic to the continent discovered there. Upon the snow-capped mountains is a legacy I need to leave to you... * Niri 's eyes shine. Despite the melancholy wrapping around her, her adventurer's instincts perk up at this bit of news. "Across the Atlantic? You mean, to the unexplored continents?" So... we're gonna need a boat. Except the nice big boat we had we ended up leaving behind. Hmm I didn't like that thing anyway, Mikel. * Ryllan blinks, "What were we just talking about about telling us /straight/?" He sighs, "I'm /sure/ you know more than that." Lucia finally starts to smile, admiring her daughter's resolve. [Lucia] It's the Crystal Spire. Wait! The Crystal Spire? I remember reading about that... * Mikel blinks. [Lucia] Fortress of the old Cult on the Blue Star and my old prison. [Lucia] It's been locked up and unreachable since the great change occured. But inside is knowledge and items that could help you greatly. * Niri turns to the party, her eyes shining. "What do you think, guys? Can we go? Please?" It's a long way...are these items that crucial? If they are I don't see why not. [Lucia] And, if you need a ship.. well, I think we can arrange that. It just so happens Mel and Jessica De Alkirk are preparing to voyage there in their fleet this very moment in Carribia. Oh geez, why am I asking? It's a new place and Niri will flog us if we don't go. What, and say no at this point? Nah, I think a trip across the sea is just what we need to help come to terms with everything that's happened here. >> The mention of Mel and Jessica earns a wan smile from Angie. "When do they leave?" she asks. * Mikel grins at Niri. "All for crusing over and poking around unexplored areas." Of course we can go. Of course, better navigational data would be useful... and, you know, some ideas about how to reach an unreachable area might be helpful. [Lucia] Consult the library for any of that. You remember the maps we uncovered, don't you, Niri? I scribbled down some stuff from the Fragarach's maps while we were there, but it's not to scale or anything. * Mikel mulls. "Maybe Webbly could help a bit with that too... we ought to check on the Elementalors sometime too, I think." * Trune nods, "Yeah. I'm sure they're okay, but you never know." He might have a good view, yes. And the elementalors should be told about Zophar. They're.. like me. Or maybe I'm like them. [Lucia] And even on the ancient ship was a similar chart. That should be all you need, combined with the experience mariners, who already made it to the coast once. But they turned back due to lack of supplies. Oh! Yeah, the maps! Hey, is Dad coming back any time soon? I'd like to consult him on this stuff. [Lucia] There's a secret island, the source of great storms. Do not fear it... for there also lies a mysterious ruin from Lunar's past, much like the Prophetess crypts. * Niri bites her tongue about just what she thinks about the nature of the Elementalors and how that compares to Tanan. "...Yeah. We should talk to Dr. Webbly." [Lucia] Maybe within is one of the pieces you need...? * Vytor (DNW@c-67-160-220-94.hsd1.ca.comcast.net) Quit (Quit: ) * Angie scratches the tip of her nose. "We found something about a lost island, and Niri had read of something, an ancient lost city. Is that what you mean?" Lucia nods. Oh, awesome. I thought we'd never get a chance to check that out. [Lucia] Hiro would be glad to help you out, my dear. [Lure] This is what he lives for... << gah >> << AAAAH HE LIVES >> [Lucia] This is what he lives for... «ooc: LURE LIVES PRAISE JEBUS » Do you think he might even come with us? * Saki has narrowed her eyes, her mouth tightening to a thin slit. At length she simply presses the ball of one hand to her forehead for a moment, composing herself. Lucia goes to hug Niri. "I'll leave that up to him to decide. Thing have been so busy, now that meribia has been re-opened." Well, I'll talk to him. *Hugs her mom back, then turns to the others.* So...plan of action? Looks like we have to go talk to your dad and then figure out where to go. Or just go to both the island and then cross the sea. * Mikel shrugs. [Lucia] I love you Niri. Please be careful, whatever you decide to do. We are all looking to you for inspiration... it's what being a real hero means. I won't let you down, Mom. * Saki regards Niri in silence for a moment, then nods slowly. "... we rest up, heal up. Get word to Mel and Jessica." Her eyes flick to Lucia once more, disapproving, then she turns to stalk outside. We should head to Vulcannon Labs first, as a detour. I want to dismantle that monstrosity before Emiria can get her hands on it. Well, what about the Headmistress? Do we still need to talk to her? Can it wait till tomorrow, or do you want to do that today, Ryllan? I want to have a word with Miz Blacklace, on top of that. If by detour you mean the totally opposite direction. I need to talk to Haylee at some point. Mikel, remember. We have the White Dragon Wings now. How long do we have before the deAlkirks put out to sea? There's no limit to those things? With the Wings we can move very quickly, as I understand them. Movement is... less restrictive, so lonv as we've been there before. (long) [Lucia] A couple days at most. Then we can just pop to wherever we need to go and get back in time for dinner? In theory, yeah. Objection withdrawn then. That's all I need. Absolute worst case, we can send them a message asking them to wait for us. But the wings... should work. [Lucia] Don't use them too much. I still don't know if the effect is permanent. I need something to eat though. Or...well, no appetite really, but at least a hot drink might be good. * Mikel mulls under his breath. "Maybe the Doc will have the reply about hazardous pay." Shall we go get something from the cafeteria and find a private place to make plans? I'm game. * Niri is behaving somewhat strangely. It's almost as if she's trying to be a leader. Works. * Niri nods, but before leaving the room, she turns to the bed where Lure recently lay. She bows slightly and makes a salute, then turns to the door and walks out, boots in hand. * Mikel follows Niri on out. * Trune follows Niri as well, looking at the bed where Lure lay for a brief moment before heading out. * Ryllan follows Niri, looking at her oddly. * Angie is now known as Gayo|Gone And without further ado, the curtain closes on the last act of revelations. The future now lies squarely in the group's hands. Will Niri be up to the task the world expects of her? And what of Johnathan's disappearance? All we can do is push forward. == SESSION END == >> 14 XP! yay lvl upz * Mikel is now known as Zack How much for popping to 13? 15, total 222 also, Niri gets the bonus I guess. Unless you want Tanan. ;) I totally vote Tanan. Also min/max is..? Session Close: Sun Jul 15 02:13:53 2007